Focaccia with rosemary

Name: Focaccia with rosemary - Vasilica P.
Ingredients: 350g white flour; 300ml warm water; 25g fresh yeast; 50ml oil; 1 teaspoon salt; ground rosemary; 1 teaspoon sugar

Pasta/Pizza - Focaccia with rosemary by Vasilica P. - Recipia

Rosemary Focaccia - A fragrant delicacy, perfect for any occasion Now imagine a table full of delights, and in the middle of it, a golden, fluffy focaccia, scented with fresh rosemary. This rosemary focaccia recipe is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying, making it ideal to serve alongside a variety of dishes or enjoyed on its own. Let’s discover together the steps to create this delicacy, and I will add useful tips and information to help you achieve a perfect result every time. Preparation time: 20 minutes Rising time: 30 minutes Baking time: 15 minutes Total time: 1 hour Number of servings: 8 Necessary ingredients: - 350 g white flour (preferably type 00, for a finer texture) - 300 ml lukewarm water (about 37-40 degrees Celsius, to activate the yeast) - 25 g fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast) - 50 ml extra virgin olive oil (for a more intense flavor) - 1 teaspoon salt (preferably coarse salt, for a stronger taste) - 1 teaspoon sugar (helps activate the yeast) - 1 teaspoon ground rosemary (or fresh, for a more vibrant flavor) Preparation steps: 1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the sugar with the yeast and part of the lukewarm water (about 100 ml). Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it starts to foam. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to work. 2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. It is important to add the salt to the flour, as it helps develop gluten. Once the yeast is activated, add the remaining lukewarm water and olive oil to the bowl with flour. Pour in the yeast mixture. 3. Mixing the ingredients: Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to combine all the ingredients. You will get quite a liquid mixture, which is perfectly normal for focaccia. If the dough is too sticky, feel free to add a little more flour, but don’t overdo it - we want a fluffy texture. 4. Letting the dough rise: Divide the dough in two and evenly distribute it into two round pans (about 24 cm in diameter). Use wet hands to spread the dough so it doesn’t stick. Cover the pans with a clean towel and let them rise for 30 minutes in a warm place, away from drafts. 5. Preparing for baking: After the dough has risen, drizzle a little olive oil on top and sprinkle the chopped rosemary (if using fresh rosemary, it should be finely chopped). Use your fingers to make uniform dimples all over the surface of the focaccia. These dimples not only add a rustic look but also help the oil penetrate and flavor the dough. 6. Baking: Sprinkle a little coarse salt on top and place the pans in a preheated oven at maximum temperature (about 230-250 degrees Celsius). Bake for 15 minutes or until the focaccia is golden and crispy. Don’t hesitate to check the focaccia after 10 minutes; every oven is different. 7. Serving: Let the focaccia cool for a few minutes before cutting it. It is delicious warm but also good cold, and pairs perfectly with a variety of fillings such as salami, prosciutto, cheese, or fresh vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or as an appetizer at a festive meal. Nutritional information: This rosemary focaccia is a good source of carbohydrates, having about 170-200 kcal per serving, depending on size. The olive oil adds healthy fats, and rosemary is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Possible variations: - Olive focaccia: Add chopped green or black olives to the dough for extra flavor. - Tomato focaccia: Sprinkle thin slices of cherry tomatoes on top before baking. - Herb focaccia: Experiment with other herbs like oregano or thyme to diversify the flavors. Frequently asked questions: 1. How can I check if the yeast is active? If the yeast and sugar mixture becomes foamy, this means the yeast is active and ready to use. 2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour? Yes, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour for a richer flavor, but you may need to adjust the amount of water. 3. How can I keep focaccia fresh? Keep the focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature. It can be frozen, sliced, and then reheated in the oven before serving. This rosemary focaccia recipe is more than just a simple bread dish - it’s an invitation to gather friends and family around the table. I encourage you to experiment and add your favorite ingredients, turning each focaccia into a unique creation. Enjoy every bite, whether you serve it as an appetizer, breakfast, or snack!